Home Safety

Source: thisoldhouse.com

In lieu of the recent residential break-ins and burglaries, homeowners are on high alert. Most of the time, electronics and other material items can be replaced. Whatcan’t be as easily replaced is the sense of security and peace of mind before a break-in. Therefore, you want to be take action now in securing your family and your home.

Where Break-Ins Happen

Front door

-Most break-ins occur at your front door. Invest in a solid, pick resistant deadbolt lock (and don’t forget to lock it!). As an added measure: keep your outdoor entry light on so it illuminates the entrance to your house at night.

First and second floor windows

-You will want to have sash locks on your windows. Easy to reach windows and second floor windows that are accessible from the roof should have double protection. So if you want to take it one step beyond the traditional lock, a wireless alarm system is beneficial.

Side Entry

-If you have sliding glass doors, install a solid metal jammer that folds up when not in use to keep them from being lifted off their tracks

Garage

-Garages can easily be opened, especially if someone gets ahold of your electronic garage door opener. Even though a side mounted indoor lock may be inconvenient, it will offer extra security.

Basement

– Outside entry ways into basements are sometimes left unlocked by accident. It will be beneficial for your home and safety to (first remember to lock the door), install motion-activated security lights near the basement entrance and grade-level windows to give prowlers nowhere to hide.

Below are a few tips to help prevent a break-in from happening in your home and decrease the likelihood that you will have to replace items that could burn a major hole in your wallet:

1. Invest in a security system…. dog

Dogs are often the most effective alarm system you can get. Sophisticated thieves often know how to work around electronic systems, and “average” thieves have no issues with breaking windows if there’s no system at all. But dogs are unpredictable – they may bite, they may not. More often than not, thieves will pick a house that’s dog-free rather than take the risk.

However, dogs are a lot of responsibility and they can be expensive. With that said, there are numerous security systems that are reliable and effective in warning you of an intrusion (without the barking and biting).

2. Lock Your Doors and Windows (refer to information above)

This seems like an obvious tip, but many people forget to do this at times. I know I’ve forgotten to do it countless times myself.

Make sure your doors and windows are always locked. Experts say 23% of break-ins occur through first-floor windows. So securing these should be a top priority.

3. Hide Valuables

If your neighbors from across the street can see your large screen TV , computer, and/or stereo system, you will want to conceal them. Make sure your valuables are hidden from passer-bys. Use privacy curtains (sheer curtains that let in light but block the view) so people can’t see in while you’re away at work or sleeping.

4. Be Prepared

Back up your computers and laptops in the event those items are stolen. Keep wallets, purses and money out of site. Know the model numbers and purchase prices of your most expensive items. The insurance company will want this information if it’s stolen.